Will USPS buy back unused stamps? (Try this)
Subsidiaries disclose: We may receive commissions for links in this article.
When you make a shopping mistake and buy something you don’t need, you can take it back to the store. But what about stamps? If you buy too much, or you have a large stash, when will the USPS buy back your unused stamps?
We also wanted to know the answer to this important question, so we did some digging. Here’s what we found!
Will USPS buy back unused stamps in 2022?
USPS will not repurchase unused stamps in 2022. USPS will only exchange unused stamps and other postage products for equivalent postage under certain conditions. If you want cash from unused stamps, your best bet is to sell them to a stamp buying service. However, you can only get 40% to 70% of its face value.
To learn more about what to do with unused stamps, read on for all the details, including where unused stamps are accepted and more!
Can I return unused stamps to USPS?
You cannot return unused stamps to USPS for a refund, but you can exchange them for new postage of the same value.
Other postage products, such as stamped envelopes and cards, can also be exchanged for equivalent postage. They also can’t get a refund.
Also, swaps are only allowed in certain cases:
- Stamps are sold in damaged, defective or unusable condition
- You made a mistake and bought the wrong stamps. In this case, only whole stamps, coils in original sealed packaging, and whole boxes of stamped cards can be replaced.
- Customers must present a valid federal or state photo ID if the stamp value to be exchanged exceeds $250.
The final decision to exchange stamps and postage products is made by the postmaster at the local post office.
If the stamps are in damaged condition and the damage occurred after the sale, they can still be exchanged, subject to a few conditions:
- The denomination of the stamp must still be clearly visible
- In the past 12 months, your local post office has sold the same type of stamp
- They are in the same form as when purchased, ie.in complete sheets, rolls or booklets
- Damaged stamps redeemable for a maximum value of $100 per customer, with some exceptions
Damaged stamps can only be exchanged for an equal number of stamps of equal value.
Where can I sell unused stamps?
The Post Office will not return your unused stamps, but you can sell them to a stamp buying service.
There are plenty of these companies that will give you cash in exchange for your unused stamps.
This might be a good option if you don’t use stamps anymore and just have a large collection that you don’t use further.
However, you may not get the full value of the stamp, but only 40% to 70% of its face value.
Is it legal to sell unused stamps?
Fortunately, it is perfectly legal to sell unused stamps for cash.
What postage items will USPS refund or exchange?
Some USPS merchandise and stationery can be refunded or exchanged if the product is damaged or unusable when you receive it.
Items that can be refunded
Personalized Stamped Stationery can be refunded or replaced if USPS makes an error on an order, such as printing your name or other information incorrectly.
exchangeable items
- Priority Mail Forever Prepaid Flat Rate Packaging
- stamp
- Commodities and Licensed Products
Items that cannot be refunded or exchanged
- sticker stamp
- Stamps cut from stamped cards, stamped envelopes, or aerial charts
- Parts or pieces of stamp cards
- Stamp Cards, Stamp Envelopes and Aerial Charts
- Mutilated or defaced stamps
Can I mail with old stamps?
Stamps never expire, so you can use old stamps even if they are 20 years old.
However, the amount of postage required for a letter will change and you must ensure that the postage is correct in the mail.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on USPS stamp types, USPS 70 cent stamps, and how much stamps are needed in Mexico.
in conclusion
USPS will not repurchase unused stamps. Unused stamps are non-refundable and can only be exchanged for equivalent postage. Some stamp buying services will give you cash for unused stamps, but you will only receive a percentage of their full value.
